Bico - surf spot statistics

Best Surf Season (October - March)

The North Atlantic winter machine is in full swing during these months, delivering consistent, powerful swell from the W-NW quadrant. Average wave heights range from 1.7m to 2.0m with long periods (12-13s), meaning pumping, firing conditions at Bico`s NW-facing beach. Offshore wind frequencies are at their highest, with 29-42% of the time blowing from the E through SSW quadrants, often associated with high pressure over continental Europe. Storms track across the North Atlantic, generating XL groundswells that wrap into Bico with epic, heavy power. This is prime time for experienced surfers to chase barrels and big waves.

Fair Surf Season (April - May)

As spring arrives, the North Atlantic storm track shifts northward, reducing the frequency and intensity of swell. Average wave heights drop to 1.2-1.5m with periods around 10-11s, offering fun, good, rippable conditions when the swell aligns. Offshore wind percentages decrease to 15-19%, but lighter wind regimes are common. The swell direction remains dominated by NW and WNW, but wind patterns become more variable with increased northerly and northwesterly breezes, which are onshore and detrimental at Bico. April and May can still deliver excellent sessions, especially with a negative NAO phase steering lows further south.

Low Surf Season (June - September)

Summer in the North Atlantic is generally quiet for surf. Swell heights average 1.0-1.1m with short periods (8.7-10.5s), resulting in small, groveling waves for the most part. The dominant swell direction becomes NW, but the energy is low. Offshore wind percentages drop to a meager 4-15%, with persistent northerly and northwesterly winds (sea breeze and trade wind influence) that wreak havoc on wave quality. The summer months are characterized by choppy, messy conditions. Only occasional late-season tropical storm swells or early autumn cold fronts can bring punchy waves, but consistent quality is rare. This is the time for longboarders and beginners, or a season to travel.

September: Hints of Autumn Renewal

September shows the first signs of recovery, with average swell rising to 1.1m and period to 10.5s – now punchy, rideable at times. NW (50.4%) and WNW (31.6%) swells produce more waves in the fun 1-1.5m range. Ideal wind improves to 15%, as the frequency of strong NNW winds begins to decline (24.2% from NNW, 17.9% from N). Early season cold fronts can bring powerful, long period groundswells with offshore east to south winds. September offers the first decent windows for cleaner surf after the summer.